VULTURES. (FyoShibu / ShibuFyo AU)

CHAPTER III.

Fyodor continued his praise, his icy eyes locked on Shibusawa. "You've proven to be quite the asset, my friend. Your skills in business analysis are beyond what I've expected. But there's a bit more I need from you. Another task, if you will." Shibusawa couldn't help but feel a sense of dread at Fyodor's words. He had hoped the analysis would be the end of his tasks, but it seemed that he was doomed to stay in this endless cycle. "What do you want from me now? Another piece of business advice?" Fyodor chuckled, his cold laughter echoing through the room. "Oh, no, my friend. This task is a bit more... personal. But fear not, I assure you that it will be worth your while. In fact, I think you might enjoy it." Shibusawa raised an eyebrow in confusion. What could Fyodor possibly mean by a "personal" task? He couldn't help but feel a knot forming in his chest. "What do you mean, "personal"? And why do you think I'd enjoy it?" Fyodor leaned in closer, his smug smile widening. "Oh, my dear friend, don't you worry your pretty little head about it. All will be revealed in due time. Just know that it's a task that will benefit both of us immensely. And as for why you'll enjoy it, well... that's a surprise I'm saving for when the time is right."

Shibusawa tried to push down the sense of unease that gripped him. He knew he had no choice but to comply with Fyodor's demands. "Fine," he said, trying to keep his voice steady. "What do I need to do?" Fyodor's smile turned into a sinister grin. "Ah, always so willing to obey. I like that about you, my friend. Now, listen closely. I have a little game planned for you. A game that will test your wits and your loyalty. Are you ready to play, my dear?" Shibusawa felt a shiver run down his spine at the words "game." He didn't like the sound of this at all, but he knew he had no choice but to play along. "Fine," he said, trying to sound confident. "What's this game and what are the rules?" Fyodor chuckled again, his voice dripping with condescension. "Oh, I'm glad you asked. The rules are simple, but the game itself is quite challenging. This game is about trust and manipulation. The goal is to outsmart and outmaneuver your opponents. And of course, there will be consequences if you fail." Shibusawa felt his heart skip a beat at the mention of consequences. He had a bad feeling about this game already, but he had to keep his cool. "What kind of consequences?"

But Shibusawa already knew the answer to that question.
Fyodor simply chuckled, avoiding the question. "Oh, I have something special in mind for losers. But don't worry, dear friend. If you play your cards right, you'll come out on top. And of course, I'll be watching every move you make, just to ensure that you stay focused and obedient." Shibusawa's mind raced with thoughts. He didn't like the idea of being watched constantly, but he had no choice but to play along. "Alright. I'll play your game. But I want to know what the prize is. What do I get if I win?" Fyodor's smile widened once again. "Ah, straight to the point, I see. Very well. If you manage to win this game, I'll reward you with something you desire most in the world. A prize beyond your wildest dreams, something that will change your life forever."Shibusawa's curiosity piqued at the vague promise. He had a feeling that Fyodor's definition of a "prize" might be different from his own. But he had to know more. "And what if I lose this game?" He asked again.

Fyodor's voice turned cold once again. "Ah, if you happen to lose, dear friend, you won't get this prize, of course. I'll have to come up with a punishment befitting your failure. And let's just say that it won't be pleasant. So, I suggest you play to win, my dear." Shibusawa felt a shiver run down his spine at the thought of this punishment. He knew he had to win this game, no matter the cost. "Fine. I'll play. What are the first steps?" Fyodor chuckled once more, his eyes glinting with sinister glee. "Excellent, my dear. You're quite the player, I must say. The first step is simple. You'll be given a list of targets, individuals whom you'll have to manipulate and deceive in order to win. You'll have to use your charm and intellect to get on their good sides and gain their trust."

Shibusawa turned a little bit red. This... wasn't meant to happen. He began to feel a lump in his throat rising. "Shibusawa dear?" Fyodor noticed. "Are you okay?"